POLYCYSTIC OVARIES ARE A COMMON FINDING IN UNTREATED FEMALE TO MALE-TRANSSEXUALS

OBJECTIVE We studied the pretreatment hormone profile and ovarian ultrasound appearance of female-to-male transsexuals. DESIGN Female-to-male transsexuals who were seen in the local Gender identity Clinic were examined after psychiatric assessment. RESULTS Sixteen patients were assessed. Approximately 50% had symptoms and signs of the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and 15 had a pelvic ultrasound diagnosis of polycystic ovaries. The endocrine profiles of the patients were not markedly abnormal and were compatible with the diagnosis of PCOS. CONCLUSIONS Polycystic ovaries and the polycystic ovary syndrome are a common finding in female-to-male transsexuals who have had no previous exposure to exogenous androgen therapy.